May, 2007

Graphics House Apparel was recently approached to produce t-shirts for various high school sports camps that typically start after school is finished for the year. Since most of these camp shirts are used as fund raisers, a program to provide these shirts was soon implemented with Graphics House's customers' needs in mind.

First, the Athletic Directors of various area schools put us in touch with sports specific coaches. We then developed a "special price" on white 100% cotton t-shirts. The offer was, two-color imprinting on one location with the design being sent from the customer or custom created at our facility at no extra cost.

With a deal like that, news of the special price spread like a rumor at a beauty parlor. Twenty-seven schools took advantage of the initial program.

The t-shirt special opened up many doors for apparel sales to area high schools and also four schools in the Chicago suburbs. Along with apparel, Graphics House has targeted schools interested in selling printing and promotional materials. The thought of four-color posters, wall shelves and pocket schedules has spurred interest as a money-maker for high schools as well as Graphics House.

A clear example of how our "t-shirt extravaganza" brought on a feeling of "I should
listen to this guy", from one of our customers is as follows:

An Athletic Director, that had done business with us in the past, said at one of our appointments, "I look forward to seeing you because you offer some unique ideas and options that other sales people don't." We discussed everything from what apparel to get the down box crew, to floor decals for their field house. That same meeting created two sales for us, plus an idea from the A.D that we may implement in the future. It was a very positive encounter - time well spent, and the door of opportunity opens just a little bit further.

But equally important in providing a great product, is being able to deliver that product on time. We are typically given a t-shirt or hoodie order on Monday, and asked to deliver on Friday. A four day turnaround! But with cooperation between sales, order entry, design, and printing, the ability to do "rush orders" has endeared us to our customers. They know, when they need it....we deliver. What a wonderful tool to have in your toolbox.